AREGENTINE ANT

They forage for food very systematically and leave trails of food to ensure they do no visit the same area. Mating takes place in the nest so swarming ants are not usually found. There can be several queens in each nest that feed and groom themselves. They can be found in potted plants, flower boxes, crawl spaces, insulation, and anywhere with moist soil near food sources. Winged queens can produce fertile eggs up to 10 years after mating with a winged male.

LEGS

6

COLOR

dark brown to black, shiny

BODY SHAPE

segmented, ovular

ANTENNAE

YES

ARGENTINE ANT HABITAT

Mainly Southeastern, Mid-Atlantic, and Western Coastal regions of U.S. States.

Argentine ant colonies are found in moist conditions or soil near a food source. Outdoors, they can be found with shallow nests near structures, along sidewalks, under boards or stones, and beneath plants or flower boxes. Acrobat ants like very mobile and will relocate colonies frequently.

They will come indoors to forage for food but may seek shelter indoors when it becomes too wet or too dry outside.

PEST THREAT LEVEL

3/10

Argentine ants do not bite or sting so they do not pose a direct threat to humans. However, they can contaminate food.